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'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.' - author Jackie French

Friday, 10 May 2013

Review: Bernie hearts Flora

Bernie and Flora have been friends for a very long time. They love hanging out together in Bernie's garden, breathing in the mass of Spring flowers.

One morning, Flora decides to surprise Bernie by popping over to make him breakfast. She rings the doorbell. No answer! Perhaps he's in the garden, so she peeks over the wall.

Oh my! All Bernie's flowers are gone! His washing is flapping in the breeze, but every single flower has vanished.What on earth happened?

Flora dashes around the neighbourhood asking Lou the dog and Annabel the sheep and other local friends, but no one knows who stole the flowers.

Despondent, Flora heads back to Bernie's place and walks in the door to find him in the living room surrounded by flowers! Can you guess what he might have prepared for Flora?

Using the old tried-and-true "I didn't do it, but maybe such-and-such did" storytelling formula, this book takes children on a romp through a delightful neighbourhood of friendly animals, and reminds us how lovely it is to do precious things for our friends.

The author's gorgeous illustrations, slipping between coloured and monochrome, are pure retro delight, and at the back of the book, she has provided a list of popular flowers and their meanings. There's even a colouring sheet tucked into the final end paper flap.